Timeless Classic
1980 - a vintage and watershed year that set the tone for the next 20 years. This was the year that I got into rock music. My 13 year old body had been converted from disco (briefly), and then mod (very briefly) to this new phenomenom (to me anyway). In my opinion this was and still is the best year EVER to be a Metal head. NWOBHM was in its prime, and we the metal public were to be treated to MEGA album releases such as Motorhead's 'Ace of Spades', the Dio fronted Black Sabbath's 'Heaven & Hell', ACDC's 'Back In Black', Ozzy’s 'Blizzard of Ozz', Iron Maiden's debut, Saxon's 'Wheels of Steel', Scorps 'Animal Magnetism', Diamond Head's 'Lightning for the Nations', and to round off this list, Priest's 'British Steel'. Most bands albums listed above never got better than this. What a time it was. I know that my affection is lost in posterity but ''what a fuckin year!!!''
The Limited Edition Deluxe format in digipack and mirror board slip case includes the original album plus live CD of the Seminole show, a live DVD and exclusive 30 minute Making of British Steel interview and a 20 page booklet . In 2009 Judas Priest performed British Steel in its entirety for the first time ever as part of their 30th Anniversary US tour. This ultimate live experience was captured in front of a vibrant American audience on the 17th August at The Seminole Hard Rock Arena, Hollywood and in full 5:1 surround and stereo sound, courtesy of original British Steel producer, Tom Allom. This show is included on DVD in both formats and also features other live tracks from their impressive catalogue.
Priest were the at the forefront of metal as it is today. The grabbed the baton from Sabbath's doom metal, and forged ahead to be the pioneers of most forms of metal that followed in the late 80s and beyond. Lambasted by the non-metal community for their outfits and (dodgy) style, but totally revered by the fans, this was Judas Priest's time to lead the NWOBHM charge and get them a no.4 spot in the UK charts. The rest they say is history….
As a deluxe set, it kicks ass. Judas Priest's style had found its way, due to Halford's soaring falsetto, and the twin guitar assault of Messers Downing and Tipton, and the songs just became part of our lives - Grinder, Metal Gods, Rapid Fire, and the single hits 'Breaking The Law', 'United' and 'Living After Midnight'. Even the album title made a statement - BRITISH STEEL. This 30yr anniversary edition is chock full of superbness - and is a fitting tribute to this, their most well known and greatest album. It's well worth the outlay. For old fans the quality of the remastered songs will blow you away. For new fans, it’s a key stepping stone in the history of metal and is as fresh as a daisy in comparison to some of the modern shite peddled around today. Awesome edition!